Shane W.

University Y Student Center

“My father was an officer in the Air Force, so I moved a lot as a kid,” said Shane. Although Shane is only 26, he’s already lived in 11 states, visited 48 states, and traveled to four countries! Like father, like son, Shane reached for the sky.

“I graduated from Florida Institute of Technology in 2012 with a Bachelor of Science in Aviation Management, while also completing the Army ROTC program," Shane said. "After graduating, I joined the Active Duty Army as a Logistics Officer and was assigned to Fort Lewis with the 1st Special Forces Group (Airborne). I served in several leadership positions there, including platoon leader, executive officer, and Jumpmaster Instructor.”

Through it all, Shane loved the experience. “Jumping out of planes and helicopters for a living is not a bad gig!” he added.

While serving in the Army, he was deployed to Afghanistan in 2014 in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. In 2016, he exited the Army and became a police officer for the City of Federal Way, which allowed him to continue to serve his community and help people. Helping others is important to Shane, both in and out of uniform.

“When I'm not at work, I am usually playing drums at local churches, or out in the city telling people about Jesus. I am an evangelist with a heart to travel the world and share the good news! I have been to Asia to work with girls rescued from human trafficking, and hope to return soon for a more full-time position.”

Shane has been coming to the Y for about 2 years. “The Y plays a huge role in my routine. I try to work out nearly every day with my best friend, Grant. Staying in shape is important for my job, and also makes me feel better about myself. I believe that our bodies are sacred and we have a responsibility to maintain them.”

Beyond being a place for him to workout, the Y has also impacted Shane's life through the people he has encountered.

“The Y has definitely made a difference in my life. Not only is it a great place to work out, but the friends I have made here have bettered me as a man. I'm thankful for the atmosphere here, where everyone is trying to better themselves. It's contagious!”